TRIGEMINO-AUTONOMIC CEPHALALGIAS (TACs)

This group of headache is characterised by often severe head pain episodes which are shorter than the ones of migraine, occurs normally more than once a day and the head pain is associated with facial symptoms, called autonomic symptoms, including: eye watering, redness of the eye, swelling of the eyelid, runny nose and/or blocked nose. Typically every headache attack is accompanied by one or more of these symptoms. The TACs encompasses 4 headache conditions that differ in terms of their clinical presentation and treatments, so it is crucial to differentiate these headaches to ensure proper treatment.

This group of headaches is considered more severe and difficult to treat than migraine but it is also less frequent in the general population. It is often mis-diagnosed as a sinus problem or a dental problem and often people with these headaches undergo unnecessary investigations and treatments.

This article is intended to inform and give insight but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. Always seek medical advice with any questions regarding a medical condition.